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For many people across Greater Houston, swimming is a cornerstone of summer life. But many pool-goers don't realize that a day by the water can have some risks.
The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services reports that 75 children drowned in the state last year — eight in Harris County.
Heather Saucier is with the YMCA of Greater Houston. She says the weather and population may have something to do with the high numbers.
"It's hot down here, we have access to the beach, and of course we have a lot of swimming pools as well,” Saucier said. “So, when you combine population and the fact that we have a warm climate and want to go swimming during the summer, it does lead to a lot of drownings, unfortunately."
The Houston Apartment Association and YMCA partnered this summer to bring water-safety lessons to children. The goal is to combat the high number of drownings.
Saucier says that there's also a lot that parents can do to help keep their children safe this summer.
"We want to make sure that they have fences around their pools, make sure that their gates are functioning properly,” she said. “It's very important to learn CPR, and of course, give your children swimming lessons."
Texas has seen 52 children drown in Texas this year — 24 of those incidents occurred in residential pools.